What paperwork fro Frnce and any other advice (please please!!!)

brucehawsker · 29 July 2013, 18:33

Can I have an update from the experts on what paperwork I need to take with me for a short trip from the Solent to Honfleur - my RIB / Engine are 8 years old with 500+ hours.

Also, do I need to show passports or anything when we arrive?

Any other advice much appreciated - we have only been as far as Alderney in convoy some years back and this is solo - missus and me. We are a little daunted!!!!

Thank you so much.

Bruce

Tadpole · 29 July 2013, 18:37

As far as I know you need SSR, insurance docs, and passports. I also take my personal VHF license & boat VHF license.
I've not been stopped in my few trips to Cherbourg or Dielette so far, but I believe the penalties for not having the right docs are harsh!

thomas · 29 July 2013, 18:58

Maybe wrong but VAT paperwork for the boat too.

Daniel · 29 July 2013, 19:12

I was stopped for the first time in 10 years recently. Infact we were boarded.

They were not interested in passports (but of course you need them).

They took details from SSR (proof of british registration) and wanted to see my ICC.

I also had VAT receipt, VHF licence, and Insurance (none were asked for).

Pikey Dave · 29 July 2013, 19:30

Here's a good place to start. We're off to Normandy tomorrow for the umpteenth time with the boat. Technically you don't need much, but that doesn't mean to say the French won't ask for it, they LOVE paperwork & "leesonces"

I take:-

SSR Cert + fly the red ensign
VAT invoice from when I bought the boat (copy)
Ships VHF licence
Personal VHF cert
ICC
Insurance

PS We'll be in Barfleur from Saturday if you want to give us a shout, we'll be setting up on Sat but will hopefully be on the water Sunday.

brucehawsker · 30 July 2013, 11:13

Thanks to everyone. Any advice on what to take or actions to take at the mouth of the Seine much appreciated.

Bruce

martini · 30 July 2013, 23:35

Quote:

Originally Posted by brucehawsker

Thanks to everyone. Any advice on what to take or actions to take at the mouth of the Seine much appreciated.

Bruce

Study the tides and weather, wind over tide in the shallow estuary can get a bit gnarly.

Tim M · 31 July 2013, 00:30

In my experience, SSR doc, ICC and insurance seem to shut them up. Less docs require significantly more blagging time!

brucehawsker · 31 July 2013, 11:54

Thks ever so. Any more comments much appreciated. Has anyone fuelled in Le Havre (petrol)? or Honfleur?

martini · 31 July 2013, 19:01

Petrol at Honfleur is only by cans from a garage.
Le Havre has a 24hr self service fuelling pontoon in the marina. Cant remember if its 100 euros or 100 litres max per fill. Then you have to reinsert your credit card and start again. You can only do this up to 3 times in 24 hours so to get more you will need more credit cards.

Price was €1.51 per litre in april 2011, pretty much the same as a French forecourt.

GJ0KYZ · 31 July 2013, 19:09

Take your vessel's registration document if you have such a thing over there or at least some form of proof that the boat belongs to you. And don't forget your passport.

martini · 31 July 2013, 19:12

A good guide to the Seine here:
Le Havre and Honfleur : Cruising in Detail | Aboard in France

If you do go up the river, one of these is essential:
Books | Fluviacarte Guide 1 - La Seine Paris to the Sea | Fluviacarte